Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 elections, has strongly condemned the reported attack on the convoy of presidential candidate Peter Obi in Benue state, calling for the immediate prosecution of those responsible. In a statement posted on his verified X account on Tuesday, September 8, Kwankwaso described the incident as "another dark day for our democracy."
Kwankwaso's Reaction to the Benue Incident
Kwankwaso said he was "deeply disturbed" by the incident, lamenting that unruly elements were deliberately mobilised to block Obi's convoy and prevent the former Anambra state governor from reaching Makurdi, the Benue state capital. He argued that the Nigerian constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of movement, and that this protection should carry even greater weight for someone of Obi's standing as a former governor and a leading opposition figure.
The former Kano state governor urged the Benue state government to urgently identify and prosecute all individuals behind the alleged attack. He also called on authorities to guarantee the safety and free passage of Obi and members of his team.
Appeal to President Tinubu and APC Governors
Kwankwaso directed a separate appeal at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking him to caution state governors, particularly those in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), against conduct that could undermine Nigeria's democratic process. He stressed that actions threatening opposition figures could have serious implications for the country's political stability.
The statement comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Obi and Kwankwaso, who were ratified as the NDC's presidential and vice presidential candidates in May 2026, are among the key opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling APC at the forthcoming polls.
Call for International Scrutiny
Beyond domestic authorities, Kwankwaso also called on diplomatic missions and election observation groups to pay close attention to the incident. He urged Nigerian authorities broadly to uphold the rule of law, protect opposition leaders, and preserve democratic freedoms across the country.
Kwankwaso's statement underscores growing concerns over the safety of opposition figures in the run-up to the 2027 elections, with the NDC candidate calling for accountability and the protection of democratic rights.
